Bidirectional Transparent Display for Multi-User Interaction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current display devices are unable to simultaneously output shared content to multiple users in a multi-user environment while allowing users to see each other and freely process desired inputs, as they cannot transmit and display light reflected by subjects in opposite directions.

Innovation Solution

A bidirectional display device comprising transparent display panels, light panels, transmittance control panels, and image output controllers that output images in opposite directions and control transmittance based on object types, enabling users to see each other and adjust content according to their gaze and input.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a display device outputs images in one direction, then the image output function is achieved, but the device cannot transmit light reflected from opposite directions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebidirectional display capabilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The display device is segmented into multiple independent transparent display panels arranged in different directions (e.g., first display panel for front direction, second display panel for rear direction). Each panel independently outputs images in its specific direction while transmitting light from the opposite direction, enabling bidirectional display functionality through modular segmentation of the display system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extends the display functionality from a single directional plane to multiple spatial dimensions by arranging display panels in opposite directions (front and rear). This dimensional expansion allows the device to simultaneously display images toward different directions while maintaining transparency and light transmission properties in each direction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If transparent display panels are used to transmit light, then light transmission is achieved, but control over transmittance for different objects is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransmittance control capabilityVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The transmittance control panel is divided into multiple regions corresponding to different objects or areas of the display. Each region can independently adjust its transmittance level, allowing selective control over which objects are transparent or opaque in the displayed image. This local quality control enables differential transmittance for different parts of the display without affecting the entire panel.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The transmittance control panel dynamically adjusts its transmittance properties in real-time based on detected objects, user interactions, or display content requirements. This dynamic control allows the system to adaptively modify transparency levels for different regions and objects, transforming the static transparent display into an actively controllable interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple users need to view content simultaneously, then multi-user functionality is achieved, but users cannot see each other

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-user interaction capabilityVSAvoidvisibility obstruction
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The transparent display panels utilize optical properties that allow light transmission while maintaining image visibility. By controlling the optical characteristics (such as transmittance, reflectivity, or optical depth) of the display panels, users can view digital content overlaid on the transparent surface while simultaneously seeing through the display to observe other users and the physical environment, enabling both digital content consumption and face-to-face interaction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables multiple users to interactively view and share content by transmitting light reflected from opposite directions, allowing for flexible arrangement and control of displayed information in various directions, enhancing collaboration in settings like hospitals or conference rooms.

Implementation Method 1

a first transparent display panel outputting a first image in a first direction and transmitting light reflected in a second direction that is an opposite direction of the first direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight transmission: Light

Implementation Method 2

a transmittance controller connected to the transmittance control panel and controlling transmittance of at least one object included in the first image or the second image

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTransmittance control: Filter (optical)

Data Source

PatentUS11127374B2Bidirectional display device and method of controlling same
Publication Date: 2021.09.21 ELECTRONICS & TELECOMM RES INST
  • US11127374B2 patent drawing
  • US11127374B2 patent drawing
  • US11127374B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A bidirectional display device may include: a first transparent display panel outputting a first image in a first direction and transmitting light reflected in a second direction that is an opposite direction of the first direction; a first transparent light panel disposed behind the first transparent display panel and providing light to the first transparent display panel; a transmittance control panel disposed behind the first transparent light panel; a second transparent display panel outputting a second image in the second direction and transmitting light reflected in the first direction; a second transparent light panel disposed between the transmittance control panel and the second transparent display panel and providing light to the second transparent display panel; a transmittance controller and controlling transmittance of at least one object included in the first image or the second image; and an image output controller controlling output of the first image and the second image.